York is the perfect place for a weekend away with its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and many great cafes, pubs and restaurants.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly base, or a central location for sightseeing, my list of the 7 best hotels in York has you covered.
1: The Grand, York
The Grand is located just over the road from the train station and its stunning Edwardian architecture instantly impresses you as you approach. This former “Palace of Business” has been transformed into York’s finest luxury hotel, blending historic charm with modern comforts.
My room was simple yet luxurious, thoughtfully designed with elegant touches and everything that I needed.
The Grand has two restaurants Legacy and The Rise, both of which have been awarded three AA rosettes. Legacy offers a more extravagant and formal experience, whereas The Rise has a more relaxed feel with an open kitchen serving hearty dishes. No visit to The Grand is complete without afternoon tea. I couldn’t resist and enjoyed a selection of interesting sandwiches and other savoury options as well as sweet treats that were truly delicious.
Location: Station Rise, North Yorkshire, York YO1 6GD
Contact: 01904 380038
Website: Visit Website
2: Principal York
Principal York is another grand hotel which sits right next to York Railway Station, making it incredibly convenient for those visiting by train. It is also perfectly located just outside the city walls and just a short walk from all of York’s main attractions.
The Victorian architecture is stunning, with elegant facades and ornate details. Inside, you’ll find a perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury. I’ve stayed here twice, once in a suite and once in a deluxe room and on both occasions the rooms were comfortable and stylishly decorated.
My favourite things about The Principal are the lovely gardens that surround it and the public areas within the hotel. It is officially a 4 star hotel but I’d say it feels close to a 5 star.
The hotel’s restaurant is pretty good and I have dined there for breakfast and dinner a few times. There is also a popular bar on site that attracts hotel guests and visitors alike.
Location: Station Rd, York YO24 1AA
Contact: 01904 653681
Website: Visit Website
3: The Lawrance
The Lawrence describes itself as a home away from home. I totally agree with this as the apart-hotel offers cosy accommodation with all the home comforts that you need. The stylish apartments are tucked away in a prime location on Micklegate, just a short stroll from York’s main attractions and close to loads of quirky, independent cafes and restaurants.
We loved the well-equipped kitchen, which gave us the option of preparing our own meals when we didn’t feel like dining out. The bed was really comfortable and the bathroom was spacious and had a powerful waterfall shower.
The apartments are spotlessly clean, and the little touches like complimentary tea and coffee make you feel right at home.
While perfect for short breaks, The Lawrance is equally suitable for longer stays. Its central location means you’re never far from York’s vibrant dining and shopping scenes. My husband said that it would be the perfect place to stay when he is visiting for business as he hates staying in hotels for any length of time.
Location: 74 Micklegate, York YO1 6LF, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 1904 239988
Website: Visit Website
4: The Fat Badger (York)
The Fat Badger is little inn, located in the heart of the city, that is full of character and sits within the historic bar walls.
The pub downstairs is quintessentially English with a cosy bar area, serving real ales and an impressive selection of gins. For the summer the beer garden is a hidden oasis, perfect for relaxing on a sunny day.
The restaurant overlooks the city and serves delicious pub food with a gourmet twist. I tried their a la carte menu and was impressed by the quality and presentation of the dishes. The mix of traditional and modern flavours really hit the spot.
My room was one of 12 en-suite bedrooms, each with its own unique style, and was cosy and full of charm.
Location: 2-4 High Petergate, York YO1 7EH
Contact: 01904 612078
Website: Visit Website
5: Malmaison York
This boutique hotel might not look too impressive from the outside, but on the inside it has everything you’d expect from a Malmaison hotel.
On the ground floor is the bar, restaurant and conference space and on the top floor is a rooftop bar that has some of the best views in York.
The rooms at Malmaison York are a true retreat although they are on the smaller side. I sank into a plush bed and enjoyed modern amenities that made my stay comfortable. The attention to detail in the room design was impressive, creating a cosy yet sophisticated space – of which the designers have made the most of.
I was particularly impressed by the Malmaison Bar & Grill. The food is top-notch, and the creative cocktails are also very nice indeed. It’s clear that the hotel takes pride in its dining offerings, making it a great spot for both guests and locals. If you do wish to visit the roof top bar then I would highly suggest booking in advance, as when I tried to get a table I couldn’t and had to sit inside. I did briefly wander around outside and take a few selfies though, and it would have been bliss to sit and have some food and a drink.
The hotel’s location on Rougier Street is ideal for exploring York. They do offer parking in their underground car park which is very convenient. I found it easy to walk to many of the city’s attractions from here. Whether you’re in York for business or leisure, Malmaison provides a perfect base for your adventures.
Rating: 4.4 (946 reviews)
Location: 2 Rougier St, York YO90 1UU
Contact: 01904 946060
Website: Visit Website
6: Hotel Du Vin
Hotel Du Vin is a boutique hotel housed in a stunning Grade II-listed Georgian mansion, just a stone’s throw from the city’s historic walls.
The combination of classic architecture and modern luxury creates a unique atmosphere. The 44 rooms and suites are individually designed, each offering a comfortable and stylish retreat after a day of exploring York’s attractions.
The hotel’s bistro is a real gem. I had a delicious meal and the options range from seafood to vegetarian dishes.
I particularly enjoyed unwinding in the cosy bar, which boasts an impressive selection of wines and staff that are on hand to advise you. It’s a favourite spot for both guests and locals, which gives it a welcoming atmosphere.
Location: 89 The Mount, York YO24 1AX, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 1904 405260
Website: Visit Website
Understanding York’s Hospitality Landscape
York’s hotel scene is a mix of old-world charm and modern luxury. I’ve seen many cities, but York’s hospitality stands out for its unique blend of history and comfort.
The city offers a range of accommodations to suit different tastes and budgets. From boutique hotels in hip areas to grand establishments in historic buildings, York has it all.
I’ve noticed that many hotels in York make the most of the city’s rich history. Some are housed in Grade-II listed buildings, adding a special touch to your stay.
York’s hotels often go beyond just providing a place to sleep. Many offer top-notch restaurants serving local dishes. I’ve found that some hotels focus on using fresh, seasonal produce in their kitchens.
Location is key in York. Most hotels are centrally located, making it easy to explore the city. I’ve stayed in places just a short walk from York Minster and other main sights.
Some York hotels offer unique experiences. I once stayed in a guest house that was part of a working convent, which was quite different from my usual hotel stays.
In my travels, I’ve found that York’s hotels often provide extras like fitness centres or beautiful gardens. These little touches can make a big difference to your stay.
Location and Accessibility
When choosing a hotel in York, location and accessibility are key factors. I’ve found that the best hotels offer convenient access to popular attractions and transport options.
Proximity to Landmarks
York’s top hotels are strategically situated near major landmarks. The Hotel 53 is a prime example. It is located within the historic city walls and close to York Barbican and York Castle Museum.
I’ve noticed that many quality accommodations are within walking distance of York Minster, the city’s iconic cathedral. Some hotels even offer rooms with views of this stunning landmark.
For history buffs, I recommend staying near Clifford’s Tower. There are excellent hotels in this area that put you right in the heart of York’s rich past.
Transportation Options
Getting around York is a breeze from most top-rated hotels. Many are just a short walk from York Railway Station, making arrival and departure hassle-free.
I’ve found that hotels in the city centre often provide easy access to bus routes. This is great for exploring attractions further afield.
For those driving, some hotels offer on-site parking. The Riverside Apartment York is a good choice. It offers free parking for Blue Badge holders.
Cycling is popular in York, and some hotels provide bike hire services. It’s a fun way to explore the city’s charming streets and riverside paths.
Insider Tips for a Memorable Stay
When visiting York, I always recommend booking a hotel in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. The city gets quite busy, and the best spots fill up quickly.
For a truly special experience, I suggest staying at one of York’s luxury hotels. Many offer stunning views of York Minster and provide top-notch amenities.
Don’t miss out on the afternoon tea offerings at some hotels. It’s a delightful way to relax after a day of sightseeing. Some establishments even serve their tea in beautiful gardens or historic settings.
If you’re looking for a more intimate stay, boutique hotels in York offer unique charm. I’ve found these smaller properties often provide personalised service and local insights you might not get at larger chains.
For budget-conscious travellers, consider staying slightly outside the city centre. You’ll find more affordable options. York is compact enough that you can easily walk or take a short bus ride to main attractions.
Lastly, I always check if my chosen hotel offers parking. It can be tricky to find in York’s historic centre, so having a guaranteed spot can save a lot of hassle.